Eleventh Step Ride

No, this isn't about seeking through meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understand Him and praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.

It's about trying to ride to Three Floyds every month this year! Now there's a consistent schedule -- the 4th Saturday of every month -- others have opportunities to lead (I can't make it every time, including this time), and you can qualify for the F-12 Award.

The ride takes the lakefront trail south from the Clock Tower. You can join up anywhere along the trail. Just let the group know where so they can look for you.

45 miles total if you ride to Flossmoor Station and take the Metra, 50 if you ride to 93rd and take the Metra or to 100th and take the J14, 55 if you ride to 71st and take the J14, 70 if you ride both ways. 15-18 mph. I like to get there before they open at 11:00 (it's the fourth-best brewery in the world, so sometimes there's a line). Bring money, government-issued ID, a lock, lights since it's getting dark early, water and snacks to have en route, and panniers for beer you can't get in Chicago.

Online resources: Google map, cue sheet, Flossmoor Metra Electric train schedule, 93rd St Metra train schedule, Jeffrey Jump (J14) bus schedule, Metra policy, CTA guide, and, to save a minute at the start, the nifty online CCC waiver.